Damian Jackson
| AB | 2209 |
|---|---|
| AVG | .243 |
| OBP | .323 |
| SLG | .356 |
| HR | 32 |
- Full name Damian Jacques Jackson
- Born 08/16/1973 in Los Angeles, CA
- Profile Ht.: 5'11" / Wt.: 175 / Bats: R / Throws: R
- School Laney College
- Debut 09/12/1996
- Drafted in the 44th round (1,147th overall) by the Cleveland Guardians in 1991.
Top Rankings
Organization Prospect Rankings
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Background: Jackson was acquired from the Indians in 1997 in the John Smiley trade. In Cleveland, Jackson was stuck behind Omar Vizquel at shortstop. In Cincinnati, he finds former MVP Barry Larkin and defensive standout Pokey Reese in front of him on the depth chart. Strengths: Jackson remains an outstanding raw athlete, an above-average runner with plus arm strength and pop in his bat. The Reds experimented with Jackson in center field in the Arizona Fall League and were impressed with his defense there, enhancing his potential value. Weaknesses: Jackson's problems stem from concentration lapses and inconsistency. He is prone to casual footwork and flipping the ball to first base, and he gives away many at-bats with wild swings. The Future: The future is now for Jackson--he is out of options. The experiment last fall in center field was a sign Jackson will be asked to play a utility role in the majors in 1999. The team hopes the big league environment focuses Jackson's considerable skills.
